FCPD: Back-to-School Safety Reminders

It's back to school for all Fairfax County Public Schools students tomorrow and the Fairfax County Police Department has released some statistics and reminders for motorists who will be on the roads on Tuesday, Sept. 6. The full press release of information is posted below.

Fairfax County Police urge motorists to be extra vigilant for pedestrians and bicyclists as county schools resume classes Tuesday, September 6. Police have investigated 112 crashes in school zones so far in 2011.

Commuters should expect increased congestion throughout the week and build time into their schedules to accommodate for the traditionally heavy time period. Residents may also notice police officers posted in school zones and near bus stops helping ensure pedestrian safety as well as safe loading and unloading of students.

Police remind drivers that when bus lights and stop signs are activated, vehicles must stop in both directions, unless they are separated from the bus by a median. In 2010, officers issued 266 citations for motorists improperly passing school buses. Typically, these infractions occur between 6 a.m. and 8 a.m. and 2 p.m. and 4 p.m. Officers also issued 1,371 summonses for speeding in school zones.

Traffic safety is a high priority for the Fairfax County Police Department. To learn more about traffic safety issues contact Master Police Officer Allie Eggers at 703-280-0563.